HOW THE RUSSIAN MILITARY HELPED FIGHT TERRORISTS IN SYRIA

On March 14, 2016, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the withdrawal of the main Russian forces from Syria from March 15.

At the same time, two Russian bases- Khmeimim and Tartus. They will continue to monitor the ceasefire in coordination with foreign partners.

In total, the Russian operation in Syria lasted 5 months and 14 days, it involved formations of the Aerospace Forces (VKS) and the Navy (Navy) of the Russian Federation.

From September 30, 2015 until mid-February 2016, when ceasefire negotiations began (the agreement entered into force on February 27), Russian aviation made more than 7.2 thousand sorties from the Khmeimim airbase, destroying over 12.7 thousand militant targets.

Support Russian VKS allowed Syrian government forces to stop the territorial expansion of terrorist groups and launch an offensive in the provinces of Hama, Idlib and Aleppo. In addition, thanks to Russian strikes, terrorists lost more than half of the income from oil illegally extracted in Syrian territory.

According to Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, Russian troops killed more than 2 thousand militants from the Russian Federation in Syria, including 17 field commanders.

The combat losses of the Russian Armed Forces amounted to three people, one plane and one helicopter.

How the Russian army fought and what diplomatic efforts are being made to ensure that the successes of the military operation are justified, - in the TASS material.

Main stages of the operation

On September 30, 2015, the Federation Council of the Russian Federation unanimously approved the request of Russian President Vladimir Putin to use the country's Armed Forces outside its territory. This decision made it possible to launch an operation of the Aerospace Forces (VKS) of the Russian Federation against the terrorist groups "Islamic State" and "Jabhat al-Nusra" (banned in the Russian Federation) in Syria at the request of the country's President Bashar al-Assad.

Immediately after the decision of the Federation Council, a Russian aviation group stationed at the Syrian Khmeimim airfield launched the first targeted airstrikes against IS targets in the Syrian provinces of Homs and Hama.

In addition to the Russian Aerospace Forces, the Russian Navy was also involved in the operation. On the night of October 6-7, the ships of the Red Banner Caspian Flotilla of the Russian Navy launched a massive attack from the Caspian Sea cruise missiles sea-based complex "Caliber" against IS targets in Syria. 26 missiles were fired from the ships "Dagestan", "Grad Sviyazhsk", "Veliky Ustyug" and "Uglich".

On November 17, 2015, Putin demanded that Russian air strikes be stepped up in Syria. This happened after the head of the Federal Security Service, Alexander Bortnikov, reported that the crash was caused by the Russian airliner A321 in Egypt.

On the same day, in accordance with the assigned task, massive strikes were carried out on militant positions in Syria with air-launched cruise missiles and aerial bombs by the crews of the Long-Range Aviation of the Russian Aerospace Forces Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22M3.

On November 20, Russia increased the air force participating in the operation to 69 aircraft. At the same time, the ships of the Caspian Flotilla launched 18 cruise missiles at seven terrorist positions, successfully hitting all targets.

On December 8, sea-based cruise missiles "Caliber" were launched for the first time from the submarine "Rostov-on-Don" from the water area Mediterranean Sea. The attack destroyed two IS command posts in Raqqa province.

ISIS's income hits

In the first two months of the operation alone, 32 oil production complexes, 11 oil refineries, and 23 oil pumping stations were damaged. One thousand eighty tank trucks transporting petroleum products were destroyed. This made it possible to reduce the turnover of illegally extracted oil on Syrian territory by almost 50%.

According to Russian military data, the Islamic State's annual income from illegal oil sales amounts to about $2 billion a year.

Russia also accused Turkey's top leadership and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan personally of being involved in the illegal production and transportation of Syrian and Iraqi oil.

In turn, the head of the main operational directorate of the Russian General Staff, Sergei Rudskoy, said that the Russian Ministry of Defense has identified three main routes for transporting oil from Syria and Iraq to Turkey.

© Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

Combat losses

On November 24, 2015, a Su-24M front-line bomber (tail number “83 white”, registration number RF-90932) of the Special Aviation Group of the Russian Aerospace Forces in Syria was shot down by an F-16 fighter of the Turkish Air Force in Syria.

The pilots managed to eject, ground fire was opened on them, and the pilot, Lieutenant Colonel Oleg Peshkov, was killed.

According to the Turkish side, the bomber was shot down due to a violation of the airspace of this country. The Russian Ministry of Defense denied the fact that the Su-24M crossed the Turkish border.

Russian Aerospace Forces helicopters flew out to search for the pilots; during the operation, one of them (Mi-8AMTSh) was damaged by shelling from the ground, and a contract marine, sailor Alexander Pozynich, died on board. The helicopter made an emergency landing on neutral territory, the crew and personnel of the search and rescue group were evacuated, and the vehicle itself was later destroyed by mortar fire from territory controlled by gangs.

On February 1, 2016, as a result of a mortar attack by IS terrorists on a military garrison where one of the Syrian army units was stationed, a Russian military adviser was mortally wounded.

Coordination in the sky

The military operation required coordination with the countries of the region, as well as with the United States, which leads the coalition against the Islamic State, which has been fighting in Iraq and Syria since the fall of 2014.

The only party with which Russia had problems was Türkiye.

Putin instructed Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to intensify Russia's participation

Lavrov, in turn, reported to the president that the operation of the Aerospace Forces contributed to the creation of conditions for political process in Syria. The Foreign Minister recalled that Russia has consistently advocated the establishment of inter-Syrian dialogue.

It is noteworthy that the diplomatic process in Syria sharply intensified precisely with the start of the Russian military operation. Russia succeeded in bringing Iran into the negotiations, something Moscow had been insisting on since the beginning of the Syrian conflict in 2011. For the first time, the head of the Iranian Foreign Ministry joined negotiations on the Syrian settlement on October 30, 2015 in Vienna.

The second meeting in Vienna took place on November 14. Its participants agreed to facilitate the holding of a meeting between the delegations of the Syrian government and the opposition by January 1, 2016, in order to later reach the creation of a transitional governing body and begin preparations for the development of a new constitution. This process, according to the road map developed in Vienna, should take about 18 months.

Peace talks were due to resume in Geneva in late January - early February 2016. However, the parties to Once again could not reach a compromise. Negotiations were “paused.”

The situation changed dramatically after the conclusion of the armistice agreement, which was agreed upon at the initiative of Russia and the United States. The ceasefire agreements do not apply to the Islamic State and Jabhat al-Nusra groups and other groups designated as terrorist by the UN Security Council. Russia and the United States are jointly monitoring compliance with the terms of the ceasefire.

This opened up a chance to start a new round of negotiations, which would not have been possible if not for the efforts that Russia has made on the diplomatic and military front over the past months.

What weapons did the Russian Federation use?

Initially, the Russian group included 48 aircraft and helicopters, including Su-34 and Su-24M bombers, Su-25 attack aircraft, Su-30SM and Su-35S fighters, Mi-8 and Mi-24 helicopters.

The agreement on the deployment of a Russian aviation group at the Khmeimim airfield in Syria was concluded on August 26, 2015. The presence of Russian aviation, according to the document, “is defensive in nature and is not directed against other states.” The contract is concluded for an indefinite period.

The military operation also involved long-range aviation aircraft of the Russian Aerospace Forces Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 and about 10 ships of the Russian Navy.

On November 26, 2015, an anti-aircraft gun was deployed to the Khmeimim airfield. missile system S-400 "Triumph" to protect the Russian air group.

1">

1">

Su-24M "FENCER"

The main strike force of the Russian air group in Syria is the modernized Su-24M front-line bomber.

The Su-24 (according to NATO classification - Fencer-D) is a front-line bomber with a variable-sweep wing; it received the nickname “Fencer” for its elongated nose. Designed to carry out missile and bomb strikes in simple and adverse weather conditions, day and night, including at low altitudes. Chief designer- Evgeny Felsner.

The plane made its first flight in 1976. The bomber is equipped with a special computing subsystem SVP-24 "Hephaestus", adopted for service in 2008, which expands the aircraft's capabilities to search and destroy targets. The Su-24M is capable of flying at low altitude and following the terrain. The bomber can strike both ground and surface targets using a wide range of ammunition, including high-precision weapons, including adjustable aerial bombs (KAB). Maximum speed flight near the ground - 1250 km/h, ferry range - 2,775 km (with two PTB-3000 external fuel tanks). The aircraft is equipped with two AL-21F-3A turbojet engines with a thrust of 11,200 kgf each.

Armament - a 23 mm caliber cannon, on 8 suspension points it can carry air-to-surface and air-to-air missiles, adjustable and free-fall aerial bombs, as well as unguided aerial missiles, removable cannon installations. Can carry tactical nuclear bombs on board.

Currently, the Su-24 and its modifications are in service with the Russian Air Force, as well as Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine. About 120 modified units are planned to be replaced by the Su-34 by 2020.

© Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

Su-34 "DUCKING"

The multifunctional fighter-bomber of the "4+" generation Su-34 (according to NATO classification - Fullback) is designed to carry out high-precision missile and bomb strikes, including the use of nuclear weapons, against ground and surface targets at any time of the day. The main attack aircraft of the Russian Aerospace Forces.

Among the Russian military, the Su-34 was nicknamed "Duckling" due to the nose of the aircraft, which resembles a duck's beak.

The all-weather front-line bomber is a modernization of the Su-27 fighter. Chief designer - Rollan Martirosov.

The first flight took place on April 13, 1990. It was adopted by the Russian Air Force on March 20, 2014. Serially produced since 2006 at the Novosibirsk Aviation Plant named after V.P. Chkalova. Maximum speed - 1900 km/h, flight range - more than 4,000 km without refueling (7,000 km - with refueling), service ceiling - 14,650 meters. Armament - a 30 mm caliber cannon, on 12 hardpoints it can carry air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles of various types, unguided rockets and aerial bombs.

The aircraft is equipped with an in-flight refueling system. The Su-34 is equipped with two AL-31F M1 turbojet engines with a thrust of 13,300 kgf each in afterburner mode. The aircraft crew is 2 people.

According to information from open sources, in December 2014, the Russian Air Force had 55 Su-34 units in service. In total, the Russian Ministry of Defense intends to adopt 120 Su-34s.

© Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

Su-25SM "GRACH"

The armored subsonic attack aircraft Su-25SM (NATO reporting name - Frogfoot-A), nicknamed "Rook", is intended for close support ground forces over the battlefield day and night with direct visibility of the target, as well as the destruction of objects with given coordinates around the clock in any weather conditions.

The aircraft differs from the base model of the Su-25 in the presence of an on-board sighting and navigation system PrNK-25SM "Bars" and equipment for working with the GLONASS satellite navigation system. The cockpit equipment has also been seriously updated - multi-function displays (MFDs) and a new head-up display (HUD) have been added in place of the old sights.

The Su-25SM is capable of using a wide range of ammunition, including precision weapons. The aircraft is equipped with a 30 mm GSh-30-2 double-barreled aircraft cannon. The maximum flight speed at the ground is 975 km/h, the flight radius is 500 km. The aircraft is equipped with two RD-195 turbojet engines with a thrust of 4,500 kgf each at maximum speed.

The Su-25 has become the most combative aircraft in the Russian army. He participated in many military operations (Afghanistan, Angola, South Ossetia). It is the “Rooks” that leave plumes of colored smoke in the form of the Russian flag over Red Square at every Victory Parade.

© Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

Su-27SM

Multi-role fighter Su-27SM (according to NATO classification - Flanker-B mod.1). Designed to gain air superiority. The aircraft's efficiency has doubled compared to the base Su-27 when operating against air targets.

The Su-27SM is equipped with new avionics systems (avionics). The aircraft cockpit is equipped with multifunctional displays (MFDs). The range of aircraft weapons used has been expanded.

On Su-27SM3 type aircraft, two additional hardpoints are installed under the wing consoles.

Su-30SM

The task of the Su-30SM fighters (according to NATO classification - Flanker-H) is to cover bombers and attack aircraft that strike the positions of Islamic State militants.

Russian double multi-purpose heavy fighter generation "4+" was created on the basis of the Su-27UB through its deep modernization.

Designed both for gaining air superiority and for striking ground and surface targets. The design of the aircraft uses the front horizontal tail (FH) and engines with thrust vector control (TCV). Thanks to the use of these solutions, the aircraft has super maneuverability.

The Su-30SM is equipped with a multifunctional radar station control system (RLSU) with a passive phased antenna array (PFAR) "Bars". The fighter's ammunition range includes a wide range of weapons, including air-to-air missiles and precision-guided air-to-surface weapons. The Su-30SM can be used as an aircraft for training pilots for advanced single-seat fighters. Since 2012, the construction of these aircraft for the Russian Air Force has been underway.

The Su-30SM is capable of performing fighting, associated with long range and flight duration and effective control of a group of fighters.

The Su-30SM is equipped with an in-flight refueling system, new navigation systems, the group action control equipment has been expanded, and the life support system has been improved. Due to the installation of new missiles and a weapons control system, the combat effectiveness of the aircraft has been significantly increased.

© Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

Su-35S

The Russian multi-role supersonic super-maneuverable fighter Su-35S belongs to the 4++ generation. It was developed in the 2000s by the experimental design bureau named after. BY. Sukhoi based on the Su-27 front-line fighter. The Su-35 made its first flight in 2008.

The aerodynamic design of the aircraft is made in the form of a twin-engine high-wing aircraft with a three-wheel retractable landing gear with a front strut. The Su-35 is equipped with AL-41F1S turbojet engines with an afterburner and a thrust vector controlled in one plane.

The 117C engine is responsible for the super-maneuverability of the Su-35. It was developed on the basis of its predecessors AL-31F, installed on Su-27 aircraft, but differs from them in increased thrust of 14.5 tons (versus 12.5), longer service life and reduced fuel consumption.

The Su-35 has 12 external hardpoints for attaching high-precision missiles and bombs. Two more are for placing electronic warfare containers.

The Su-35's armament includes a whole range of air-to-air and air-to-surface guided missiles, as well as unguided missiles and aerial bombs of various calibers.

According to the nomenclature of bomber and unguided missile weapons The Su-35 is generally no different from today’s Su-30MK, but in the future it will be able to use improved and new models of aerial bombs, including those with laser correction. The maximum combat load weight is 8000 kg.

The fighter is also equipped with a GSh-30-1 cannon of 30 mm caliber (ammunition capacity - 150 rounds).

© TV channel "Zvezda"

Long-range aviation

Tu-22M3

Long-range supersonic missile carrier-bomber with variable wing geometry.

Designed to engage ground and sea targets with supersonic guided missiles at any time of the day and in any weather conditions.

Chief designer - Dmitry Markov. The first flight took place on June 22, 1977, it went into serial production in 1978, and was adopted by the USSR Air Force in March 1989.

In total, about 500 Tu-22M of various modifications were built. The maximum speed of the aircraft is 2,300 km/h, the practical range is 5,500 km, the service ceiling is 13,500 m. The crew is 4 people. Can carry cruise missiles of various types with conventional or nuclear warheads.

Currently, aircraft of this model, which are in service with the Russian Air Force, are being repaired and modernized.

© Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

Tu-95MS

Turboprop strategic missile-carrying bomber.

Designed to destroy important targets with nuclear and conventional weapons in remote military-geographical areas and in the deep rear of continental theaters of military operations.

Chief designer - Nikolay Bazenkov. The aircraft was created on the basis of the Tu-142MK and Tu-95K-22. The first flight took place in September 1979. Adopted by the USSR Air Force in 1981.

Maximum speed is 830 km/h, practical range is up to 10,500 km, service ceiling is 12,000 meters. Crew - 7 people. Armament - long-range cruise missiles, 2 23 mm cannons.

Currently, the Russian Aerospace Forces have about 30 units in service. Modernization to the Tu-95MSM version is underway, which will extend the service life of the aircraft until 2025.

© Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

Tu-160

Supersonic strategic missile-carrying bomber with variable wing geometry.

Designed to destroy the most important targets with nuclear and conventional weapons in remote military-geographical areas and in the deep rear of continental theaters of military operations.

Chief designer - Valentin Bliznyuk. The vehicle made its first flight on December 18, 1981, and was adopted by the USSR Air Force in 1987.

Maximum speed - 2,230 km/h, practical range - 14,600 km, service ceiling - 16,000 m. Crew - 4 people. Armament: up to 12 cruise missiles or up to 40 tons of air bombs. Flight duration is up to 15 hours (without refueling).

At least 15 aircraft of this type are in service with the long-range aviation of the Russian Aerospace Forces. By 2020, ten modernized Tu-160M ​​aircraft are expected to arrive.

© Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

Helicopters

Mi-8AMTSH "TERMINATOR"

Mi-8AMTSh Terminator transport and attack helicopters are stationed at the Khmeimim airbase. This is the latest modification of the well-known and proven military transport helicopter Mi-8.

"Terminator" is designed to destroy enemy equipment, including armored equipment, shelters and firing points, and manpower.

The range of ammunition used on board the Mi-8AMTSh, in addition to unguided weapons, includes high-precision weapons, in particular anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM) 9M120 "Attack" or 9M114 "Sturm". The helicopter can carry up to 37 paratroopers, up to 12 wounded on stretchers or transport up to 4 tons of cargo, perform search and rescue and evacuation operations.

The helicopter is equipped with two VK-2500 engines of increased power. Mi-8AMTSh are equipped with a set of means of protection against damage. The cockpit of the new helicopter is equipped with multifunctional indicators that display a digital map of the area, and the latest flight and navigation equipment that works with GPS and GLONASS navigation systems. Mi-8AMTSh helicopters are also distinguished by improved service life indicators, allowing significant savings on helicopter maintenance throughout the life cycle.

Crew - 3 people. Maximum speed - 250 km/h, flight range - up to 800 km, service ceiling - 6,000 meters.

Versatility and high performance characteristics have made Mi-8 helicopters one of the most popular Russian helicopters in the world.

Mi-24P

The Mi-24P attack helicopter (NATO classification - Hind-F) is designed for visual surveillance and organization of a security zone in the area of ​​the Khmeimim airfield, as well as search and rescue operations. It is a modernized version of the Mi-24.

Each Mi-24P used in Syria carries four units of 20 unguided aircraft missiles. The helicopter is also equipped with guided missiles and a 30-mm double-barreled automatic aircraft cannon GSh-30K (ammunition - 250 rounds), capable of reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h and rising to a height of 4,500 meters. Can fly at extremely low altitudes from 5 to 10 meters.

The helicopter made its first flight in 1974, mass production began in 1981.

The Mi-24P is designed to strike concentrations of manpower, combat equipment, including armored ones, and destroy low-flying, low-speed air targets.

The crews of the Mi-8AMTSh and Mi-24P helicopters are equipped with night vision goggles, which allows them to fly at night.

Bombs and rockets

1">

1">

(($index + 1))/((countSlides))

((currentSlide + 1))/((countSlides))

CONCRETE BOMB BETAB-500

The BetAB-500 concrete-piercing bomb was developed at the Basalt State Research and Production Enterprise. Designed for the destruction of concrete structures, bridges, naval bases. The main task of the bomb is to pierce the roof of a fortified facility; these could be underground fuel or weapons warehouses, or various concrete fortifications. BetAB-500 is capable of breaking through 1 meter of concrete buried 5 meters into the ground. In medium-density soil, this ammunition forms a crater with a diameter of 4-5 meters. Such parameters are achieved, firstly, due to the trajectory of the bomb falling - vertically downwards. After being dropped from an airplane, a special braking parachute opens at the ammunition, which directs the BetAB to the ground. In addition, when the parachute is fired, a rocket accelerator is activated in the tail of the bomb, which creates additional speed at which the ammunition meets the target. The mass of the bomb warhead is 350 kg.

BetAB has a reinforced shell compared to a conventional high-explosive bomb, which helps break through concrete and other fortifications.

ROCKETS KH-29L AND KH-25ML

The X-29 family of missiles were developed in the USSR and put into service back in 1980. Currently, the modernization and production of ammunition is carried out by the Tactical Missile Weapons Corporation.

Missiles of this type are designed to destroy ground targets such as strong aircraft shelters, stationary railway and highway bridges, industrial structures, warehouses, and concrete runways.

In the Kh-29L version, the missile is equipped with a laser homing head. In Syria, these missiles are used by Su-24M front-line bombers and Su-34 fighter-bombers.

The missile is equipped with a high-explosive penetrating warhead. Before launching a missile, the pilot can set the option for the missile to fire - instantaneous, upon contact of the missile with the target, or delayed firing.

The firing range of the Kh-29L missile is from 2 to 10 km.

The missile has a powerful warhead weighing 317 kg with an explosive mass of 116 kg.

Kh-25 is an aviation guided multi-purpose air-to-surface missile equipped with a semi-active homing head (GOS). The Kh-25ML missile is equipped with a laser seeker.

Designed to destroy small targets both on the battlefield and behind enemy lines. Capable of breaking through up to 1 meter of concrete.

The maximum launch range is 10 km. Flight speed - 870 m/s. Warhead mass (warhead) - 86 kg.

KAB-500S

This adjustable bomb is designed for high-precision destruction of stationary ground targets - railway bridges, fortifications, communication nodes. The bomb is highly accurate due to its inertial-satellite guidance system. The ammunition can be used effectively both day and night in any weather.

The bomb can be dropped at distances from 2 to 9 km from the target and at altitudes from 500 meters to 5 km at a carrier aircraft speed of 550 to 1100 km/h. Bomb mass in different options- 560 kg, mass of high-explosive concrete-piercing warhead - 360-380 kg.

The probable circular deviation of the bomb from the target, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense, is 4-5 meters, according to the manufacturer - from 7 to 12 meters.

KAB-500S has a fuse with three types of delay.

A direct hit from two such aerial bombs in Syria destroyed the headquarters of the Liwa al-Haq formation, and more than 200 militants were immediately eliminated.

OFAB DIFFERENT WEIGHTS

High explosive aerial bomb free fall. It is used to destroy weakly protected military targets, armored and unarmored vehicles, and manpower. It is used from altitudes from 500 meters to 16 km.

In Syria, these munitions are used by Su-25SM attack aircraft.

CRUISE MISSILE X-555

Subsonic air-launched strategic cruise missile, modification of the X-55, equipped with a conventional warhead.

The missile is equipped with an inertial Doppler guidance system, which combines terrain correction with satellite navigation. X-555 can be equipped different types Warhead: high-explosive fragmentation, penetrating or cassette with different types of elements. Compared to the X-55, the mass of the warhead was increased, which led to a reduction in the flight range to 2000 km. However, the X-555 can be equipped with conformal fuel tanks to increase the cruise missile's flight range to 2,500 km. According to data from open sources, the circular probable deviation (CPD) of the missile ranges from 5 to 10 m.

According to data obtained from a video recording of the Russian Ministry of Defense, the Kh-555 missiles were used from Tu-160 and Tu-95MS aircraft, which carried them in the intra-fuselage compartments.

Strategic missile carriers of these types are equipped with an MKU-6-5 drum-type launcher, which can carry 6 air-launched cruise missiles.

CRUISED MISSILE ZM-14

On October 7, 2015, 3M-14 cruise missiles of the Caliber NK complex were successfully used during the Russian military operation in Syria.

Three small missile ships of Project 21631 of the Caspian flotilla (Uglich, Grad Sviyazhsk and Veliky Ustyug) and the Project 11661K patrol ship Dagestan fired 26 missiles at 11 ground targets located at a distance of about 1,500 km. This was the first combat use of the missile system.

Included in the flotilla rocket ships projects 11661K and 21631 are equipped launchers tactical cruise missiles "Caliber" (according to NATO classification - SS-N-27 Sizzler).

The Kalibr missile system was developed and produced by the Novator Design Bureau in Yekaterinburg on the basis of the S-10 Granat complex, and was first introduced in 1993.

Ground-, air-, surface- and underwater-based complexes and export versions have been created on the basis of "Caliber". Currently different types"Caliber" complexes are in service with Russia, India and China.

Data on the maximum range of only the export version of the missile was officially disclosed; it is 275-300 km. In 2012, at a meeting with the President of Dagestan Magomedsalam Magomedov, Vice Admiral Sergei Alekminsky, who at that time held the post of commander of the Caspian Flotilla, said that the tactical version of the cruise missile of the Caliber complex (3M-14) could hit coastal targets at a distance of up to 2,600 km.

The performance characteristics of the 3M-14 missile are classified information and open access are missing.

2019 TASS information agency (registration certificate mass media No. 03247 issued April 2, 1999 G state committee Russian F Federation of Press)

Some publications may contain information not intended for users under 16 years of age.

The last day of September was remembered for a lot of news regarding the armed conflict in Syria. The official authorities of this Middle Eastern state turned to Russia for military assistance, President Vladimir Putin received permission from the Federation Council to use armed forces abroad, and by evening Russian planes began carrying out combat missions in Syria. All these events happened in less than one day.

According to official data, Russia sent an aviation group of the Aerospace Forces to Syria. For some time, Russian planes will strike targets of terrorist organizations, primarily the Islamic State, which is banned in our country. According to the announced plans, Russian participation in the war on terrorism it will be limited to air strikes, etc. actions. There are no plans to send ground troops or participate in ground operations.

On October 1, the Russian military department announced the first information about the quantitative and qualitative composition of the Aerospace Forces group. Official representative Ministry of Defense Major General Igor Konashenkov said that more than 50 aircraft and helicopters of several types were deployed to Syria. From other statements by the general it follows that the group included front-line Su-24M and Su-34 bombers, as well as Su-25 attack aircraft. All these vehicles have already taken part in combat work and made several dozen sorties to strike enemy targets.

The Su-34 bomber landed. Still from a report from Channel One

The exact number of certain aircraft and helicopters has not yet been officially specified. However, thanks to foreign specialists, the general public has already been able to obtain some information about the Russian Aerospace Forces grouping in Syria. Apparently, an agreement on direct military assistance was reached by Moscow and Damascus several weeks ago, which resulted in the transfer aviation technology and auxiliary equipment.

A few weeks ago, the first satellite photographs of the Syrian international airport them. Basil Al-Assad (the name “Hmeimim airbase” also appears), which showed Russian planes and helicopters. In addition, there were some other reports of Russian aircraft appearing in Syrian airspace. Thus, back on September 10, the American Fox News channel reported that several An-124 Ruslan military transport aircraft were spotted in Syria. Apparently, these vehicles delivered some equipment to the Middle Eastern country.

On September 20, The Aviationist published a satellite photograph dated the previous day. A reconnaissance satellite, filming an airport near the city of Latakia, captured four Su-30SM multirole fighters. This message caused a strong reaction from the domestic and foreign public. For the first time during the armed conflict, modern Russian aircraft were spotted on Syrian territory. In addition, during the discussion of information about the Su-30SM at the B. Al-Assad airport, assumptions were made for the first time about Russia’s future participation in the battles.

Subsequently, new photographs of the airport were published, but the number of Su-30SM fighters did not change over time. Probably only four such vehicles were deployed, which should now be responsible for intercepting various air targets and, possibly, participating in strikes against ground targets.

Satellite image of the Khmeimim base from September 20

Also on September 20, a video recording of the flight of several aircraft appeared. The filmed vehicles were identified as an Il-76 transport aircraft (or an Il-78 tanker) and Su-24 front-line bombers. The number of these machines was unclear until a certain time.

Following the front-line bombers in Syria, Su-25 attack aircraft were spotted. On satellite images from the Allsource Analysis agency on September 20 and 23, up to 12 Russian-made attack aircraft could be seen. In addition, on September 23, there were four Su-30SM and four Su-24 at the airfield, as well as one military transport Il-76.

Comparing photographs from different days, one can notice that the personnel of the aviation group took some measures aimed at complicating reconnaissance. So, in the photos of different days, the position of certain aircraft at the airfield changes, which to a certain extent makes it difficult to determine exact quantity technology.

Also on September 20, up to 12 helicopters, covered with camouflage nets, were seen at one of the sites of the B. Al-Assad airport. Foreign experts identified them as Mi-24 or Mi-35 type vehicles. A more precise determination of the type of combat helicopters is difficult poor quality photographs, the presence of camouflage nets and minor external differences two cars.

General view of the airfield, September 20

It is noteworthy that some reports from September 20 indicated the total number of Su-24M bombers at 12 units. However, vehicles of this type were first photographed only a few days later in slightly smaller numbers. Perhaps the satellite with the photographic equipment was unable to take a photo at the right moment, which is why information about an entire squadron of bombers was not confirmed until a certain time.

On September 21, ABC News, citing a source in the Pentagon, reported that not only combat helicopters, but also transport helicopters had arrived in Syria. According to these data, to perform transport tasks Several Mi-17 helicopters are used, and the total number of helicopter groups has reached 15 units. The proportions of various types of equipment remain unknown.

More than a week after the first reports of Russian aircraft in Syria, information appeared about additional transfers of aircraft. On September 29, photos appeared showing front-line Su-34 bombers in flight and during landing. It was alleged that the pictures were taken near the city of Latakia, i.e. in close proximity to the Khmeimim airbase.

Airstrips with camouflaged helicopters, September 23

Some foreign sources mentioned that the Russian aviation group included the Il-20 electronic reconnaissance aircraft. However, this information was provided with references to unnamed sources and has not yet been confirmed. Satellite photos of this aircraft have not yet appeared, but the use of such equipment in the current situation may be justified.

On September 30, having received the order, Russian attack aircraft took off to destroy enemy targets. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, during the first day of the operation, our aircraft carried out about two dozen strikes on eight targets in different regions of Syria. Successful destruction of targets was reported, including command posts, ammunition depots and other facilities belonging to terrorists.

For the first time in domestic practice, the Ministry of Defense began to publish not only short press releases with general information about the combat missions carried out, but also video recordings of strikes and destruction of targets. For example, by the evening of September 30, the general public was shown the process of destroying one of the enemy’s targets. Subsequently, the publication of similar recordings continued, and on October 1 and 2, the military shared footage of night strikes.

Warehouses, barracks, etc., September 23

The fact of the appearance of video materials demonstrating the combat work of Russian strike aircraft is a reason for several conclusions at once. First of all, he says that the Russian Aerospace Forces now have the ability to directly monitor the situation and control the results of strikes using unmanned aerial vehicles aircraft. In addition, it turns out that the aviation group in Syria includes not only combat aircraft and helicopters, but also reconnaissance UAVs. However, the quantity and types of this equipment remain unknown.

For obvious reasons, for the normal operation of combat aviation, not only an airfield is required, but also appropriate auxiliary equipment. Published satellite images show that barracks, warehouses, a residential complex, etc. were deployed on the territory of the Syrian airport. Thus, a small base appeared on the territory of a friendly state, suitable for solving the assigned tasks.

The satellites also “noticed” various ground weapons and military equipment. Some objects in the photographs were identified as artillery pieces, armored personnel carriers and tanks. In addition, at the airport. B. Al-Assad is present a large number of automotive equipment of various types.

The data published by this time allows us to compile a rough list of Russian aircraft serving at the Syrian Khmeimim base. These are four Su-30SM fighters, 12 Su-24M bombers and Su-25SM attack aircraft, as well as at least 6 Su-34 bombers. In addition, about one and a half dozen helicopters of several types, a number of UAVs, etc. were deployed to Syria.

Su-34 landing, photo dated September 29

The existing composition of the Russian Aerospace Forces aviation group directly speaks of its goals and objectives. Russian pilots will have to first attack terrorists' ground targets. In addition, as they say, just in case, several multirole fighters have been added to the group. If necessary, they will be able to protect attack aircraft and helicopters.

The composition of the Aerospace Forces group deployed to Syria, as well as the results of the first combat missions, allow us to look into the future with restrained optimism. Russian front-line aviation pilots have already shown that they are capable of solving assigned tasks and delivering precise strikes against enemy targets. Soon combat work aviation will continue. Thus, the Russian military will take an active part in the fight against terrorist organizations, and will also gain the most important experience of working in a real conflict.

Based on materials from sites:
http://ria.ru/
http://tass.ru/
http://interfax.ru/
http://lenta.ru/
http://theaviationist.com/
http://abcnews.go.com/
http://sandrermakoff.livejournal.com/
http://pfc-joker.livejournal.com/
http://spioenkop.blogspot.ru/

Videos of attacks on terrorist positions on the official YouTube channel of the Ministry of Defense:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtqIS4Gj9IdFcxQT2hTgkuG3tHMRxFq2L

Abbreviation VKS in Lately began to meet quite often. But for many people it is incomprehensible. And many people ask a logical question: what is videoconferencing? Well, it should be answered.

Definition

Another task is to manage satellite systems (both dual and purely military purposes). Launching spacecraft is also included in the list of responsibilities of the Aerospace Forces. The troops are also obliged to use all their strength and capabilities in order to provide military personnel and commanders-in-chief necessary information about what is currently happening (or not happening, this is also important) in air and outer space. And finally, the forces undertake to maintain in working order the means by which they are launched.

As you can see, VKS must perform many tasks. This is indeed a very serious military unit. Therefore, serving in such troops is an honor and at the same time a responsibility.

On September 30, 2015, the operation of the Russian Aerospace Forces in Syria began. On this day, the Federation Council unanimously approved the use of the Russian Armed Forces in the Syrian Arab Republic, and the very next day - October 1 - the aerospace forces launched the first strikes on militant positions.

An advanced group of Russian specialists arrived in Syria in June 2015. It included several high-ranking military personnel and security. They were faced with the task of determining the location of the future military base. The group studied several sites, and after careful analysis, the choice fell on Basil Al-Assad Airport in the province of Latakia.

In the 1980s, there was a Soviet facility here, from where electronic reconnaissance was carried out. The airport was well known to our specialists. Also nearby, in Tartus, there was a logistics support center for the Russian Navy. This guaranteed fast delivery of goods and military equipment.

But Al Asad Airport had one serious drawback. At that time he was quite close to the front line. In the summer of 2015, clashes between militants and government troops took place in areas of mountainous Latakia - the airport was just over 30 km from there. And yet, the advance group recommended establishing an air base at the airport. Ultimately, this proposal was approved.

The so-called “Syrian Express” began operating on August 8. Six Russian large landing ships began transporting equipment and cargo. Until September, they made the transition between the bases of the Black Sea Fleet and the Syrian port of Tartus more than ten times. Later, a cargo ferry was also involved in transportation.

On September 7, the Khmeimim airbase received its first aircraft. On this day, the heavy military transport An-124 Ruslan, as well as the passenger Il-62M, landed in Latakia. The next day, another Ruslan arrived at the base.

By the time the “air bridge” opened, parking lots for equipment, airplanes and helicopters had already been built at the airbase. Additional taxiways were laid at the airfield and all the radio-electronic systems necessary to support flights were deployed.

On September 18, Khmeimim airbase began operating its own air defense system. On this day, four Su-30SM fighters arrived in Syria. They took over the function air defense. The cars were parked at the end of the runway. From that moment on, the pace of aircraft transfers increased many times over.

Already on September 21, in addition to four Su-30SM, 12 Su-24 front-line bombers, the same number of Su-25 attack aircraft, as well as four of the latest Su-34 multifunctional bombers were deployed in Latakia. By this time, a squadron of Forpost unmanned aerial vehicles was already operating at the airbase. Special tent hangars were built for their storage and maintenance.

In total, the Aerospace Forces aviation group initially included 49 aircraft and helicopters:

• 12 Su-24M front-line bombers,
• four Su-34 front-line bombers,
• four Su-30SM fighters,
• 12 Su-25SM/UB attack aircraft,
• 12 Mi-24P combat helicopters,
• five Mi-8AMTSh transport and combat helicopters.

The group was formed from crews of combat units of the Aerospace Forces.

To coordinate aviation actions, conduct reconnaissance and issue target designations, the A-50 and Tu-214R long-range radar detection and control aircraft, as well as an electronic reconnaissance aircraft and electronic warfare Il-20M1. Mi-24P helicopters were used to directly support Syrian ground forces.

The expansion of the group continued in December 2015, when four Su-34s, four new Mi-35M combat helicopters and several Mi-8 transport helicopters arrived in Latakia. In January 2016, the group was replenished with four new multirole Su-35S fighters in Syria.

The main strike force of the Russian air group was the modernized Su-24M front-line bomber. It was equipped with a special computing subsystem SVP-24 “Hephaestus”, which expanded the aircraft’s capabilities to search and destroy targets. In addition to the Su-24M, Su-25SM and Su-34 were used for strike missions multi-role fighters Su-35S and Su-30SM, although initially they were main task there was air cover for attack aircraft.

The Syrian campaign was the first combat use of supersonic strategic missile-carrying bombers Tu-160 and turboprop missile-carrying bombers of the Tu-95MS family. Long-range Tu-22M3 bombers also flew from Russian territory. Su-30SM and Su-35S, as well as modernized Su-27SM3 fighters, which had two additional hardpoints under the wing consoles, were used for escort.

Then the power of the “strategists” amazed the West, because for a long time it was believed that Russian aviation was not capable of fighting far from its borders. It was thanks to the Syrian successes of the Aerospace Forces that the decision was made to resume production of the Tu-160 bombers in the modernized version of the Tu-160M2. Thus, during the first combat mission, on November 17, 2015, two “White Swans” fired a total of 16 Kh-101 cruise missiles. All of them successfully hit the indicated targets, and the aircraft returned safely to the Russian Engels airbase.

For the first time, high-precision weapons were used in significant quantities, including KAB-500S satellite-corrected aerial bombs, and Su-25SM attack aircraft used free-fall high-explosive fragmentation aerial bombs (OFAB). They were used to destroy weakly protected military targets, armored and unarmored equipment, and manpower.

To destroy ground targets, the Su-24M and Su-34 used missiles with a Kh-29L laser homing head. An aviation guided multi-purpose air-to-surface missile equipped with a semi-active homing head, the Kh-25ML, was also used.

Su-34 bombers flew with the latest guided anti-ship missiles Kh-35U, one aircraft of this type with Kh-35U was demonstrated in February 2016 on a wall screen at a Russian Ministry of Defense press briefing.

During combat missions, the Tu-160 and Tu-95MS used the latest air-launched cruise missiles Kh-101 and Kh-555, which were carried in the intra-fuselage compartments. Tu-22M3 used free-falling bombs.

In the spring of 2016, a baptism of fire for attack helicopters took place in the Syrian skies. army aviation– Mi-28N “Night Hunter” and Ka-52 “Alligator”. It was reported that they were equipped with the same set of weapons - a 30-mm 2A42 automatic cannon, S-8OFP unguided aircraft missiles of 80 mm caliber and two types of Ataka guided missiles. Helicopters were used during the liberation of Palmyra and Aleppo.

In November 2016 - January 2017, the air group of the Northern Fleet heavy aircraft-carrying cruiser Admiral Kuznetsov took part in the hostilities. He made a long trip to the Mediterranean Sea, during which carrier-based aviation pilots flying Su-33 and MiG-29KR/KUBR fighters carried out 420 sorties, including 117 at night, and hit 1,252 terrorist targets. The ship's air wing also included Ka-27PL, Ka-27PS and Ka-29 helicopters.

During this voyage, Ka-52K Katran naval helicopters were also tested, and for the first time new helicopter radar patrol Ka-31SV, another designation - Ka-35.

The appearance of the fifth generation Su-57 aircraft in the skies of Syria became a sensation. According to the Russian Defense Minister, two such fighters successfully completed two-day program testing in combat conditions.

“To evaluate in a combat situation the declared capabilities of the military equipment being developed, practical launches of promising operational-tactical cruise missiles from a fifth-generation Su-57 aircraft were carried out in February 2018,” Sergei Shoigu later explained.

Since September 2017, the MiG-29SMT fighter has been successfully used in the Arab Republic. “The experience gained in Syria will be taken into account in the operation of these aircraft, and will also be implemented as part of the development of new MiG aircraft complexes, including the MiG-35,” noted Sergei Korotkov, general designer of the United Aircraft Corporation.

The group was supplied by heavy military transport aircraft Il-76 and An-124. In total, 2,785 flights were carried out by air during the entire operation.

During the operation, the Russian Aerospace Forces carried out 39 thousand combat missions. The intensity of the use of military aviation exceeded 100 or more sorties per day, recorded on November 20, 2015 maximum amount– 139 flights. There were also 66 air-launched cruise missile strikes.

Last Wednesday, October 14, the auxiliary vessel of the Russian Navy “Dvinitsa-50” passed the Bosporus Strait heading towards the Mediterranean Sea. Externally - nothing unusual, the bulk carrier is like a bulk carrier. Not very large, with a displacement of only 4.5 thousand tons and a length of 108 meters. But there is no doubt that this passage of the Black Sea straits will be noticed by the military even overseas.

The fact is that just a few months ago, the well-worn ship (built in 1985), according to all the documents on board, was called completely differently - “Alican Deval”. And a completely different flag fluttered on its mast. Namely, Turkish. But relatively recently, “Alican Deval” was sold, changed owners and went to Novorossiysk. There the war flag of our auxiliary fleet was raised. And already on October 10 we arrived at the Novorossiysk berth for loading. Almost no one doubts that those cargoes are intended for our military in Syria.

Immediately there were reports that in fact, the Russian Ministry of Defense urgently purchased not one, but eight used transport ships from Turkey. All of them will be urgently delivered on the route Novorossiysk - the Syrian port of Tartus. Then this route, which has been very busy in recent months without the former Turkish bulk carriers, will simply start operating at a breakneck pace. And all together means that the scale of participation of the Russian Aerospace Forces group in the war in Syria will only increase in the foreseeable future. Thus, the forecast published on October 14 in the article under the title very quickly found its confirmation.

Russian aviation group stationed at the Khmeimim airfield in Syria

Let me briefly remind you: in the Middle Eastern press, citing sources in the coordination headquarters for the fight against the “Islamic State” * located in Baghdad, reports appeared that, in the opinion of the Syrian command, the current intensity of air raids on Islamist positions is completely insufficient. To decisively break the resistance of the bearded thugs, Russian pilots must deliver three times as many missile and bomb strikes against the enemy every day. Namely: instead of today's approximately 60, carry out an average of 200 combat sorties per day.

In order to fight at such a pace, at least three things are needed:
— first, to urgently increase the grouping of our attack aircraft and helicopters in Syria.
— the second is to equip at least one more airfield for them. Because what is called the Khmeimim air base is operating at maximum capacity.
— third, to sharply increase the logistics supply of the growing aviation group.

The first point, judging by the messages that have appeared, is already being fulfilled. This week saw the first appearance of our newest attack helicopters in Syrian skies. They weren't there for a few more days. Relatively old Russian forces previously participated in fire support for the advancing Syrian troops and in protecting the perimeter of the Khmeimim airbase provided to Russia. combat helicopters. Some of whom still remember the skies of Chechnya. Or even Afghanistan.

Where do the new “Night Hunters” come from in Syria? Didn't they arrive via Iran and Iraq? None of the military will answer you about this. But it can be assumed that the helicopters were delivered to the warring country last Saturday by two Russian aircraft military transport aviation. Because it was on Saturday that two of ours landed in Latakia. As the Russian Ministry of Defense announced, “with humanitarian aid for the Syrian population.” Perhaps on board these giant planes there were not only cans of stewed meat and condensed milk. Somewhere in the far corners of the bottomless fuselages of the Ruslans, the Night Hunters are probably just lying around.

Almost simultaneously, as reported by Arab media, the civil airport in Latakia, which previously served even international flights, was declared closed to passengers. Thus, it is very likely that this is now the second airfield for the Russian group.

Of course, an additional contingent will be required to guard and defend the second airfield. Marine Corps. Yes, and a lot more is required. Namely, thousands of tons of aviation and automobile fuel, various types of ammunition, food, spare parts for equipment, etc. And here we come to what is perhaps the most difficult thing in organizing the combat work of the group of Russian Aerospace Forces in Syria . For their logistical support.

Recently, the British Financial Times published an article by the well-known hater of our country, Zbigniew Brzezinski. Among other things, it says: “ Russian naval and military forces present in Syria air Force very vulnerable because they are isolated from their country" You can hate Brzezinski, but he knows what he's talking about. Supplying the warring faction is actually our Achilles heel in Syria.

However, Moscow is well aware of this even without the prompting of the old American Russophobe. Everything that is possible is being used today to ensure transport communications between Russia and Syria. But, alas, little is possible. At the request of Washington, Bulgarian airspace is closed to flights of Russian military transport aircraft. Turkish - even more so. For planes, there remains a long and costly roundabout route through Iran and Iraq.

It is easier and cheaper, although much longer, to deliver the necessary goods to Syria by sea. Therefore, the main burden in providing support for the warring group fell on Russian sailors.

However, at first they tried to involve civilians as well. Of course, there was no group of ours near Latakia yet, but Assad’s army was already fighting the Islamists with might and main and needed Russian support. We provided it.

But two international scandals happened in a row. First, in January 2012, the Westberg Ltd. vessel Chariot was detained for inspection in the Cypriot port of Limassol. Flying the flag of the state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, it flew from St. Petersburg to Latakia. As it turned out, with a load of live ammunition purchased absolutely legally by the Syrians from Rosoboronexport. Since Syria, due to the outbreak civil war was under EU sanctions, the Cypriots released Chariot on the condition that it would change course. But soon, as Turkish authorities reported, the cartridges were unloaded from Tartus anyway.

In June of the same year, the Alaid cargo ship carrying Syrian combat helicopters and air defense systems repaired in Russia was detained off the coast of Scotland. The bulk carrier was owned by Volcano Shipping NV, a company registered in Curacao. The operator was the Sakhalin company FEMCO.

As a result of the proceedings, the crew lost their insurance and were forced to return to Murmansk.

It became clear that civilian courts could not break the blockade. Since then, any of our military assistance to the army of President Bashar al-Assad (and, more recently, to our own grouping of the Aerospace Forces) comes exclusively under the flag of the Russian Navy. Since the decks and holds of warships are national territory and are not subject to inspection by citizens of other states.

What began on this route after 2012 is known in the world as the “Syrian Express.” Almost the entire available composition of large landing ships (LDCs) of all four of our fleets has been constantly scurrying between Novorossiysk and Syrian Tartus for three years now. IN different time, replacing one another, six of the seven BDKs of the Black Sea Fleet, all eight serviceable BDKs of the Northern Fleet and Baltic Fleet. Over thousands of miles of Mediterranean jelly, even two of the four remaining ships from the Pacific Ocean had to sip on the Mediterranean jelly.

Somehow this potential was enough until our Khmeimim airbase near Latakia entered the battle in Syria on September 30. As you know, these are three dozen bombers and attack aircraft. Judging by information regularly published by the Ministry of Defense, each of them makes at least 2-3 combat sorties per day. The combat load of the Su-34 front-line bomber (there are currently six of them in Syria) is about 12 tons. Its older brother Su-24 (there are twelve of them at the airbase) - 7 tons. Su-25 attack aircraft - about 4.5 tons.

Even if you don’t take into account fire support helicopters and four fighter jets, which fly no less intensively, and don’t take into account the similar needs of a reinforced marine battalion and the air defense unit covering Khmeimim, radio reconnaissance and electronic warfare units, there is still a daily consumption of ammunition alone and only the Russian strike force. front-line aviation in Syria amounts to more than one hundred tons. Every day and every night! Let's say big landing ship Project 1171 type "Nikolai Filchenkov" is capable of taking on board a maximum of 1,750 tons of cargo.

Further. It takes at least four to five days to drag them to Syria. It still takes time to load and unload. For some inter-trip repairs. There are no more than a couple of flights to Tartus per month for everyone. And this is only about 3 thousand tons of cargo. There will not be enough aviation for a week of combat work.

What will happen if it increases in number and soon starts flying from the former airport in Latakia? The fleet will not have enough large landing craft. Call them from the Far East, or from the Arctic.

It takes a long time to build new ones. There, the large landing ship of Project 11,711 “Ivan Gren” has just been launched in Kaliningrad and has just begun mooring tests... The bagpipe with it has been going on since 2004. The next one, “Petr Morgunov,” is just about to be laid down at Yantar. According to the plan, this large landing ship will enter service no earlier than 2017. So the sufferers of the “Syrian Express” cannot count on replenishment for a long time.

What remains? Urgently purchase, wherever necessary, efficient dry cargo ships and place them in support of the front-line communications with Syria. This is what the Russian Ministry of Defense did, multiplying its capabilities with eight Turkish dry cargo ships.

By the way, it is possible that larger vessels than the former Turkish Alican Deval will be purchased. For some reason, urgent dredging work began at the entrance to Tartus. They are led by the pick-up vessel KIL-158 and the hydrographic vessel Donuzlav (both from the Black Sea Fleet). The task is to begin accepting maritime transport of a larger displacement at our logistics point as soon as possible. Because it is possible that the war against terrorists in Syria will last for a long time.

________________________________________________________________________________________

* By the decision of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation of December 29, 2014, the “Islamic State” was recognized as a terrorist organization, its activities in Russia are prohibited.